Western Kentucky University rode three home runs to a 14-4 blowout of Illinois-Chicago in game one of a three-game series. The Hilltoppers received long balls from senior second baseman Matt Payton, junior left fielder Monte Ketchum and sophomore shortstop Logan Robbins. Ketchum, Robbins, senior first baseman Jake Wells, freshman designated hitter Ryan Huck, junior center fielder Kes Carter and sophomore left fielder Jared Andreoli each drove in multiple runs in the game.

Senior right-handed ace Matt Ridings earned his second win of the season after allowing four runs in six innings. Ridings surrendered six hits, struck out three and walked two. Junior right-handed reliever Scott Pedersen and freshman right-handed reliever Caleb Hanes held Illinois-Chicago scoreless over the last three innings. WKU improved to 7-2 on the season. (Box Score)

BluGrass Baseball POG: Monte Ketchum — In a game of standout offensive performances Ketchum’s was the best. The left fielder was 3-4 with a home run, three RBI and three runs scored in the game. Ketchum had no hits in four at-bats on the season entering the game.